How to Become a Nurse Practitioners in Pennsylvania
Nurse Practitioners in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $127,400/year, which is 1% below the national average. Pennsylvania has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a nurse practitioners takes home approximately $6,415/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a nurse practitioners can afford in Pennsylvania
Becoming a nurse practitioners in Pennsylvania
Meet education requirements
Nurse Practitioners positions in Pennsylvania typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Pennsylvania. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many nurse practitioners positions in Pennsylvania require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Pennsylvania licensure or certification
Pennsylvania may require specific licensing or professional certification for nurse practitionerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Pennsylvania Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania employs 10,860 nurse practitioners. The highest concentrations are in Reading and Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington.
Nurse Practitioners salary by metro area in Pennsylvania
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reading | $135K | $64.92/hr | 280 |
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington | $132K | $63.27/hr | 5,780 |
| Harrisburg-Carlisle | $131K | $63.17/hr | 500 |
| Lancaster | $130K | $62.62/hr | 390 |
| Chambersburg | $129K | $62.17/hr | 100 |
| York-Hanover | $129K | $61.91/hr | 240 |
| Scranton--Wilkes-Barre | $128K | $61.6/hr | 460 |
| Gettysburg | $128K | $61.45/hr | 50 |
| State College | $128K | $61.35/hr | 120 |
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton | $127K | $61.26/hr | 750 |
| Williamsport | $125K | $60.09/hr | 100 |
| Lebanon | $124K | $59.37/hr | 80 |
| Erie | $122K | $58.71/hr | 240 |
| Altoona | $122K | $58.64/hr | 100 |
| Johnstown | $115K | $55.2/hr | 120 |
Nurse Practitioners salary range in Pennsylvania
Nurse Practitioners careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a nurse practitioners make in Pennsylvania?▼
The median nurse practitioners salary in Pennsylvania is $127,400 per year ($61.25/hr). This is 1% below the national median of $129,210. Salaries range from $101,370 to $159,920.
What are the requirements to become a nurse practitioners in Pennsylvania?▼
Nurse Practitioners positions in Pennsylvania typically require Master's degree. Pennsylvania may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Pennsylvania licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a nurse practitioners afford to live in Pennsylvania?▼
At the median salary of $127,400, a nurse practitioners in Pennsylvania would take home approximately $7,827/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 18% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for nurse practitioners in Pennsylvania?▼
The highest paying metro areas for nurse practitioners in Pennsylvania are Reading ($135,030), Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington ($131,590), Harrisburg-Carlisle ($131,390). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Pennsylvania have state income tax for nurse practitioners?▼
Yes, Pennsylvania has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $127,400 salary, this means roughly $3,911/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.